The Eye of the Beholder
"In the heart of everyone," begins Bray. "Man. Woman. And, especially, child. There exists a secret. A something. It doesn't matter what it is. But it is there. Do you know what your secret is?"
You find yourself thinking deeply and seriously. You can't help but feel that coming to the wrong answer will bring you harm.
"Don't feel that way," says Bray in a calm and reassuring tone. "I already told you that I don't intend you any harm. The truth is that the secret changes from person-to-person. Indeed, some people share the same secret, often for a variety of reasons. It is this secret that inspires us. Gives us meaning. Now, it is not for me to tell you what your secret is. Only you can determine that. That's why it's a secret. But, with my help, by the end of tonight, you will know what your secret is. And by the time you leave this house, this place, you will be wiser not just about yourself, but the world entire."
His gentle tone is almost fatherly, intended to put you at ease. Part of you is responding. Another part is still screaming at you that you shouldn't be here right now.
"Just relax," says Bray as he ceases rocking in his chair. "Now, I want you to listen. I'm going to tell you some stories. As with all stories, there is a grain of truth to them. Some of these stories have already taken place, while others haven't happened just yet."
"Stories?" you find yourself saying aloud without actually meaning to. A disbelief present in your mind has caused you to do this.
"Yes," Bray says simply. "Stories. They don't exist merely to entertain or pass the time. They help to impart wisdom. And with that newfound wisdom, stories help us to examine our lives and improve ourselves in a variety of ways. Thus, one should never discount a story. Do you understand now?"
You nod your head without thinking. It was almost as though you were bid to do so.
"Maybe you were," says Bray as he starts rocking in the chair again. "Regardless, again it is time to listen."
You lean forward on your stool as Bray begins his first story.
To be continued…